Ralph Anderson Home with Sweeping Views

Designed by Ralph Anderson, this Queen Anne home reflects the noted architect’s Pacific Northwest inspired modernist style. Meticulously constructed and renovated, the residence features spectacular views of Elliott Bay, Puget Sound, and Olympic Mountains on the horizon.

Expansive windows and high ceilings create a bright and open feeling throughout. Classic craftmanship mixes with modern design choices and premier materials, appliances, and built-in cabinetry. Stunning interiors connect to outdoor living spaces seamlessly and this showcase home is designed for entertainment.

The home’s infrastructure has been thoroughly updated. Enjoy the mature landscaping and convenience of a single-car garage.

Unbeatable location provides a peaceful, quiet setting while being minutes to some of Seattle’s most vibrant neighborhoods including Interbay, Ballard, South Lake Union, and Fremont. Downtown is just a quick commute away.

MAIN LEVEL

• A striking front entry welcomes friends and family to the home and is one of several doors specifically selected by Ralph Anderson to match the residence’s overall aesthetic. A distinctive floating staircase immediately signals that the design of the space is exceptional, and nothing close to ordinary.
• Solid white oak hardwood flooring throughout the main level accentuates the generous use of contrasting wood in the space’s conception.
• The home’s most dramatic room features 18-foot ceilings and floor-to-ceiling corner windows. It can be purposed as either a living or dining room. A free-standing fireplace adds a unique touch of character to the space. There is access to a deck creating a perfect set-up for sophisticated entertaining or simply relaxing in the fresh air.
• The thoughtfully updated kitchen is one that any chef would enjoy. Gourmet features include custom walnut cabinetry with complementary white oak floating shelves, induction stovetop, premier Bosch appliances, quartz countertops, and a functional waterfall peninsula.
• Two sunny guest bedrooms have been introduced from the original floorplan on the main level. One bedroom includes custom built-ins and outdoor access to a patio. This flex space could also be purposed as additional living space or a home office.
• The main-level guest bath is highlighted by heated tile floors and refined walnut cabinetry.

UPPER LEVEL

• A cozy sitting area overlooking the main level takes advantage of views from the towering two-story windows. It leads to a larger living space highlighted by a fireplace and walls of windows. Access to the upper-level deck is from this room.
• A built-in office nook on the upper level reflects the home’s attention to functionality and maximizing the utilization of space.
• Another alcove houses the washer/dryer, a wine/champagne cooler, and prep area with undermount sink and lighting.
• The serene and generously proportioned master suite offers respite and comfort. Doors open to a private balcony; a perfect spot to welcome the day with a cup of espresso. Fir frieze boards finish and beautify the space.
• Unwind in the spa-caliber master bath featuring heated tile floors, freestanding soaking tub, waterfall shower, Toto toilet, and decorative subway tile. Captivating skylights add brightness and style.

A NOTE FROM THE SELLERS

We wanted to preserve the architect’s original vision focusing on meshing the indoor space with the outdoor surroundings - while refreshing with modern touches to elevate the home. To help us achieve this, we improved upon the open layout concept and upgraded to custom double pane and low-e windows to maximize efficiency, lighting, and views. We also enhanced the skylight coverage on the upper floor. Our efforts focused on sustainability and we selected systems like a tankless water heater, mini split heating/cooling, and energy efficient appliances. In addition, we fully upgraded the plumbing and electrical systems for the entire home.

It was extremely important for us to preserve Ralph Anderson’s distinctive design details. We retained exterior bubble sconces, stained glass linear windows and doors, and his signature triple-stacked crown molding. To complement his style, we refreshed the home with finishes that were in line with mid-century design and exuded a Pacific Northwest vibe.

To support our vision for maximum usability, we partnered with a professional space designer who helped us achieve both a flexible and functional floor plan. The home has an ability to adapt with homeowner’s needs (i.e., close off downstairs room as a bedroom or keep it open for den space). We also added 350 sq. ft. of additional livable, covered, and heated exterior space allowing for year-round outdoor living. We opened the railing system on the home’s decks to enhance views that were previously obstructed with thick banisters. In addition, we designed a master retreat that allows for maximum privacy as it's the only bedroom on the top floor. We wanted a master bath that felt like a spa so expanded the footprint and included a separate shower and bath space. The upstairs includes a wet bar to serve as a complete entertaining area.

On the exterior, we focused our efforts on both the entryway and backyard. In the front, we wanted to ensure the first interaction with the home from the street view aligned with the upgrades we executed inside. We rebuilt entry stairs and retaining walls to add functionality, while also blending with original elements such as cinder block foundation and with newer additions such as the poured concrete garage. In the back, we wanted it to feel like an oasis outside of the city. We enhanced a tiered multi-level yard that provides for three separate outdoor spaces. The original landscape architect chose plants that bloomed sequentially throughout the year, providing year round foliage and ultimate privacy.

HISTORY OF RALPH ANDERSON

Anderson, the designer of this distinctive home, was one of Seattle’s most significant architects. He embraced modernist trends while demonstrating commitment to preserving the historic architectural character of Pacific Northwest buildings and neighborhoods. Anderson was heavily involved in the reimagining and restoring the Pioneer Square and Pike Place Market areas in downtown. He has often been called the “Father of Pioneer Square.” With his residential projects, he strived to incorporate the contours, textures, and vegetation of the Pacific Northwest, particularly wood and other natural materials from the area’s abundant forests. His homes are characterized by broad windows framing iconic views of the surrounding landscape. He helped create a more localized version of modernism that emphasized living in harmony with the environment and highlighting the exquisite natural beauty of the region. Finally, Ralph Anderson was a prolific mentor to many younger architects and his influence over the city’s aesthetic continues to this day.